question they think is manageable only to realise, later, that theycould have handled another question with more ease.

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Choose a topic you are familiar, or comfortable with, which is withinyour scope of experience, so you do not have to struggle withcontent.

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Opt for something that is within your linguistic ability. Do not selecta topic just because you think it is challenging. This is not the timefor experimentation. As for weak students, it is generally advisableto write a narrative.

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Plan your essay: the outline, points/ideas/thoughts and supportingpoints (if you are writing an argumentative or factual essay).

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Remember to use a variety of sentence structures (simple,compound and complex).Competent candidates should use more of the latter as your competencywill be made obvious by your ability to use these structures accurately. Donot use too many simple sentences as, at SPM level, more is expected of you.

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Use sentences of varying lengths. A short sentence can be veryeffective after several long sentences.

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Choose words carefully. You should be able to use words withdifferent nuances. For instance the word “walked” can be replacedwith synonyms such as ambled, strolled, sauntered, staggered,strode.

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Write out your essay in neat, legible handwriting. There is nothingmore annoying than small or untidy handwriting, or a combinationof both, as the reader has to spend valuable time deciphering whatyou have written.